Understanding Ramadan
Beginning on June 6 and continuing through July 5, you might see Muslim coworkers decline that breakfast snack or lunch without commenting why they’re abstaining. Instead of going to the annual picnic or other summer activity, your Muslim colleague may be more focused on his or her spiritual life. No, they aren’t being anti-social or standoffish. It’s simply Ramadan, the month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide. Here is some information about the month to help you understand the importance of the holiday to your friends and coworkers.
Fasting and Sacrifice
One of the key elements of Ramadan is fasting. From sunup to sundown, Muslims abstain from food and drink. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, but there are exceptions to those who are required to fast. Children, the elderly, and those who are ill, pregnant or breastfeeding do not have to abstain. Many people who do not fast will make it up at a later date. Sometimes, children will try to complete a fast in preparation for their adult years.
Food and drink are not the only things that Muslims abstain from during Ramadan. It’s a time to give up bad habits, such as smoking, arguing, gossiping, lying, and swearing. Married couples will abstain from sex during the month. The point of the fast is to stay focused on the spiritual and to be submissive to God. They may avoid complaints and getting mad during this time.
Prayers and Quran
To help focus on the spiritual, Muslims will perform extra prayers at night during Ramadan, but the prayers are not compulsory. Another practice that Muslims are encouraged to do during Ramadan is to read the entire Quran. This might be through special prayers at the mosque, when one-thirtieth of the Quran is read every night.
It’s Not Just a Somber Celebration
Before daybreak, Muslims do partake in a meal. It’s recommended to eat healthy, opting for slow-digesting foods, such as lentils, barley, and oats. This pre-fast meal is called the Suhar. Following this meal, morning prayers will be said.
At the end of the day, it’s traditional to break the fast by eating dates, because this is how Muhammad broke his fast. After the dates are eaten, Muslims will say more prayers before their evening meal is served. This meal, called Iftar, is commonly a social gathering and will be served buffet style. Practically every country has its own traditions. In Muslim countries, there may be a signal to end the fast, such as cannons or drums. Many countries with a large Muslim population will decorate with lights or lanterns.
Work doesn’t stop during Ramadan, but some countries do amend work schedules for the month. The U.A.E. labor law says that the maximum working hours during Ramadan are 6 hours per day, 36 hours per week. Many countries in the Middle East have similar statutes. Unfortunately, these countries also have severe penalties for not fasting and adhering to the customs. In Kuwait, if someone is seen eating, drinking, or smoking during the day, he or she might face a fine or jail time of up to one month.
In the United Kingdom and the United States, employers should not treat individuals celebrating Ramadan less favorably. It is advised that employees let employers know that they are fasting, but these employees should not suffer a disadvantage because of their fast. The information is not provided to receive sympathy, but for understanding and health implications.
If you have a coworker who is fasting through Ramadan, be understanding. While you don’t have to give up lunch, be respectful during this time. Plan meetings for a different time than lunch. Don’t be offended when someone turns down an invitation. Know that it’s a special time of spiritual growth for that individual.
